Brazilian footballer Pele is one of the greatest sportsmen of all time. This beautifully illustrated and lyrically written book tells the inspiring story of how his dream of playing football for his country began as he polished ths shoes of spectators going into Rio de Janeiro's stadium. Growing up in a poor district of Rio, Pele did not have a ball but would kick about with anything to hand - a grapefruit was a particular favourite. His father, a professional footballer himself, spotted his talent, but it was the hugely anticipated World Cup final between Brazil and Uruguay to be played in Rio itself that gripped his imagination. Too poor to afford tickets, he and his family listened to the radio commentary in despair as Uruguay won the match. Pele's father was in tears and at that Pele determined that he would one day lead the Brazilian team to World Cup victory. Many years later he did just that not once but three times.
- ISBN10 1847800203
- ISBN13 9781847800206
- Publish Date 3 June 2010
- Publish Status Cancelled
- Out of Print 26 October 2009
- Publish Country GB
- Publisher Frances Lincoln Publishers Ltd
- Imprint Frances Lincoln Childrens Books
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 40
- Language English